Wild Card

One foggy morning on the banks of the Murray River, a body is found in a burnt-out area of grassland. The heavily tattooed victim, who has suffered two bullet wounds to the head, is identified as Freddie Jones, a bikie from Moama.

Detective Sergeant Zoe Mayer is on the case, alongside her trusty service dog, Harry. Although Zoe is determined to track down the murderer, she finds herself stonewalled at every turn—by Freddie’s family, his associates and even the local police. But then a second body is discovered, and soon all bets are off…

Wild Card is a gripping mystery about gang warfare and small-town corruption, featuring a crime-fighting duo like no other.

In his early days, Simon Rowell worked on outback oil rigs, managing nightclubs, and as a tour guide in Central Australia. Eventually, he transitioned into a twenty-year career in corporate branding. Rowell is known as the author of several novels, including The Long Game, Wild Card, and The Good Dog (all part of the Zoe Mayer series), along with The Echo of Others, which earned a spot on the longlist for the Ned Kelly Awards for Best First Crime in 2018. He and his wife, Karen, reside on a farm full of rescued animals on South Australia's Fleurieu Peninsula.

’This is a very entertaining crime novel that is elevated above much of the competition by its easy flowing style, nicely limned characters, vivid descriptions and strong sense of credibility. A terrific read.’ Canberra Weekly on The Long Game

‘An absolute cracker.’ Urban List on The Long Game

’The start of what one selfishly hopes is a long series…with heaps of potential, good characters and an interesting, complicated and tricky central plot.’ AustCrime on The Long Game

‘Compulsive reading.’ Canberra Times on The Long Game